Method Of Capping Printhead Assembly

Abstract

A method is provided of capping duplexed printheads having nozzles arranged to eject ink onto opposite surfaces of print media. In the method linear movement of each printhead is effected in a first direction and linear movement of associated capping members is effected in a second direction to a position at which each capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated printhead. The first and second directions are non-parallel

1 . A method of capping duplexed printheads having nozzles arranged to eject ink onto opposite surfaces of print media, the method comprising:
 effecting linear movement of each printhead in a first direction and linear movement of associated capping members in a second direction to a position at which each capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated printhead, the first and second directions being non-parallel.   
   
   
       2 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein each capping member is linearly transitioned from a non-capping first position to a second position at which each capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the respective printhead. 
   
   
       3 . A method as claimed in  claim 2  wherein each capping member is positioned in confronting relationship with the respective printhead and the capping members are moved in a direction normal to the printheads when effecting linear transitioning of the capping members from the first to the second position. 
   
   
       4 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein each capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member. 
   
   
       5 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein each capping member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the respective printhead. 
   
   
       6 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein each capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively. 
   
   
       7 . A method as claimed in  claim 6  wherein a chamber is located within each capping member and is connected in fluid passage communication with the cavity and wherein the chamber is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the respective printhead. 
   
   
       8 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein each capping member is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the respective printhead.